Vi Subversa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Vi Subversa
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Background information | |
Born | London, England, United Kingdom |
20 June 1935
Died | 19 February 2016 | (aged 80)
Genres | Anarcho punk |
Occupation(s) | Musician, singer |
Instruments | Vocals, guitar |
Years active | 1975–2016 |
Labels | Crass, XNTrix, Cooking Vinyl |
Associated acts | Poison Girls, Crass |
Frances Sokolov (born June 20, 1935 – died February 19, 2016) was a British musician. She was best known by her stage name, Vi Subversa. Vi was the lead singer, songwriter, and rhythm guitarist for the anarcho-punk band Poison Girls.
About Vi Subversa
Early Life and Family
Vi Subversa was born in London, England. Her parents were of Jewish background. In the late 1950s, she lived in Israel for two years. During that time, she worked with pottery in a place called Beersheba.
Vi had two children. Her son, Pete Fender (born Daniel Sansom), was born in 1964. Her daughter, Gem Stone (born Gemma Sansom), was born in 1967. Both of her children also became musicians. They were part of punk bands like Fatal Microbes and Rubella Ballet.
Music Career and Messages
Vi Subversa's first public show was in 1975 at Sussex University. In 1979, she released her first song with the Poison Girls. At this time, she was 44 years old and a mother of two.
Her songs often had strong messages. She wrote about women's rights and punk ideas. She wanted to share her views through her music.
Vi Subversa also appeared in a movie. It was a documentary film called She's a Punk Rocker.
Later Years and Legacy
Later in her life, Vi Subversa started a new music group. It was a cabaret trio called Vi Subversa's Naughty Thoughts. She formed this group with Michael Coates and Judy Bayley.
Her very last live show was with Naughty Thoughts. It took place on December 5, 2015, in Brighton. The band The Cravats also played at this event.
Vi Subversa passed away on February 19, 2016. Her son, Pete Fender, shared the news. She died after a short illness.